Momentum measuring apparatus for golf practice and the like



July 14, 1936. N M, BA R' 2,047,402

MOMENTUM MEASURING APPARATUS FOR GOLF PRACTICE AND THE LIKE Filed July 12, 1933 7 Sheets-Sheet l 53 an ass 25 z n" O N) "i '9 2 L 5/ I 1 f 27 1g 4 {I i y 26 v 72 I 1 2 105 g5 I 72 9a" 17 69 I s O 52 Z 68 f O 56 50 l 14 6 5.9- 50 152 99 51 I V67 1 06 an 58 10,2 62 E -41! 2 INVENTOR /VMBar/ier July 14, 1936. N. M. BARKER MOMENTUM MEASURING APPARATUS FOR GOLF PRACTICE AND THE LIKE 7 Sheets-Sheet 2 Filed July 12, 1953 July 14, 1936. N. M. BARKER MOMENTUM MEASURING APPARATUS FOR GOLF PRACTICE AND THE LIKE Filed July 12, 1933 7 Sheets-Sheet 5 II/II/II/lI/III IIIIIII/I/II/I/II/l/ I I I M I M 1 ll/Il INVENTOR /VMBar/fer y ATTORNEYS July 14, 1936. N. M. BARKER MOMENTUM MEASURING APPARATUS FOR GOLF PRACTICE AND THE LIKE Filed July 12, 1955 7 Sheets-Sheet 4 -INVENTOR /VMfiar/zer %RNEYS July 14, 1936. BARKER 2,047,402

MOMENTUM MEASURING APPARATUS FOR GOLF PRACTICE AND THE LIKE Filed July 12, 1953 7 Sheets-Sheet 5 INVENTOR July 14, 1936. N. M. BARKER MOMENTUM MEASURING APPARATUS FOR GOLF PRACTICE AND THE LIKE Filed July 12, 1933 7 Sheets-Sheet 6 INVENTOR MMflar/ier BY AM 7% ATTORNEYS July 14, 1936. N. M. BARKER 2,047,402

MOMENTUM MEASURING APPARATUS FOR GOLF PRACTICE AND THE LIKE Filed July 12, 1935 7 Sheets$heet '7 INVENTOR /l/Mflar/ier I;?TO RN EY$ Patented July 14, 193i,

UNITED STATES PATENT OFFIQE MOMENTUM MEASURING APPARATUS FOR GOLF PRACTICE AND THE LIKE 12 Claims.

My invention relates generally to momentum measuring and indicating apparatus for successively measuring successive momentums imparted to a body, such as the simulation of a standard golf ball, constrained for movement in a restricted path, each momentum being imparted to the body by the impulse of a force acting on the body, such as the striking force of a golf club, and the apparatus preferably indicating each momentum in terms of the horizontal distance of free flight which would have been imparted to a freely movable body, such as a standard golf ball, when subject to the impulse imparting the indicated momentum.

More particularly, my invention relates to apparatus for golf practice including a body simulating a standard golf ball and which may be called a practice ball and which is constrained for movement in a restricted path, and momentum measuring and indicating means operatively associated with the practice ball for successively measuring and indicating each of a succession of momentums imparted to the practice ball by the impulses or strokes of a golf club used for prac- 133 ticing in the ordinary manner by a player, and the operation of the appartus being controlled when desired by coin, check, or token controlled operation control means.

The types of momentum measuring and indicating apparatuses heretofore proposed, including those primarily intended to be used for golf practice, have been inaccurate, have been difficult to operate and use, and have had other disadvantages, with the result that very few if any such apparatuses are generally available and in use for any purpose, and particularly for the purpose of golf practice.

From another standpoint, there are no generally available apparatuses or machines having coin, check, or token controlled operation control means permitting a definite plurality of externally actuated operations of the apparatus or machine after each insertion and functioning of a coin, check, or token in the operation control means of the apparatus.

The objects of the present invention are in general to provide an improved momentum and indicating apparatus particularly adapted for use for golf practice, and to provide such an apparatus operatively associated when desired with coin, check, or token controlled operation control means permitting a definite plurality of momentum measuring and indicating operations of the apparatus after each insertion and functioning of a coin, check, or token in the operation control means of the apparatus.

More specific objects of the present invention, and the nature of some of the means for their attainment, are as follows:

First, to provide a practice apparatus for increasing the efliciency of a player in striking with a golf club so that in actual play, the player may drive the golf ball a maximum distance and in a controlled and desired direction, the practice apparatus including a body or practice ball constituting a simulation of a standard golf ball and constrained for movement in a restricted path, momentum measuring and indicating means op-- eratively associated with the practice ball for indicating accurately preferably in yards the distance of flight which would have resulted from striking an unrestrained standard golf ball in the same manner as the practice ball of the apparatus is struck by various strokes of the player, and the practice ball being arranged so that after each stroke applied thereto there is indicated to the player or driver or others after the completion of each stroke in just what manner the practice ball has been struck, so that the result of a sliced, hooked, or topped ball stroke may be compared with the result of a properly executed stroke;

Second, to provide practice apparatus of the above character and which is so constructed and arranged that it may be located within a building or out of doors in a relatively small area and arranged so that repeated strokes may be applied to the practice ball thereof and so that the practice ball may be returned to a striking position after each stroke is applied thereto, preferably by depressing a foot pedal, whereby when the practice ball is returned to the striking position the character of the previous stroke is made apparent and the practice ball is positioned for another stroke, thus making it possible to improve the players golf stroke at home, at a club, at a recreation resort, or at any other place, where the practice apparatus may be located;

Third, to provide golf practice apparatus that will tend to foster the habit of keeping the players head down and the players eyes on the ball when striking the ball instead of jerking it up to follow the flight of the ball, the latter habit being generally accepted to be the cause of most improper golf strokes, and for this purpose, the indicator, of the apparatus is located in such position that the player or driver looks in the same direction to observetheresultof his strokes as the player looks in addressing the practice ball of the apparatus;

Fourth, to provide an apparatus as aforesaid in which the indicator is arranged to hold the vision of the player or driver as long as possible in the proper line thus tending to break the habit of raising the head to follow the flight of the ball, and for this purpose, the apparatus includes means for indicating at a gradually decreasing rate of speed on the indicator, the distance an unrestrained ball would have been driven by the applied stroke, so that the time elapsing. between the instant of striking the practice ball of the apparatus, and the final indication of distance is comparable to the time elapsed during the actual flight of an unrestrained golf ball if struck by the same stroke;

Fifth, to provide practice apparatus of the foregoing description and which is adapted for use by an instructor in teaching a student the art of properly striking a golf ball, such instruction being possible by the use of the improved apparatus with any degree of privacy desired, and without the necessity of requiring driving ranges, caddies, or the like;

Sixth, to provide practice apparatus of the foregoing description, and the use or operation of which is controlled by coin, check, or token controlled operation control means, so that the use or operation of the practice apparatus is possible only after the insertion and functioning of a coin, check, or token in the operation control means, and accordingly a charge may be made for the use of the apparatus when an attendant is not present, whereby the apparatus may be installed for use in athletic clubs, recreation resorts, golf clubs, near the first tee on golf courses, or at other desirable locations;

Seventh, to provide apparatus having a coin, check, or token controlled operation control means constructed and arranged so that a desired predetermined number or plurality of externally actuated operations of the apparatus may be permitted after the insertion and functioning of each single coin, check, or token in the operation control means without requiring further manipulation by the user of the operation control means of the apparatus until after the predetermined number of externally actuated operations of the apparatus has been carried out. Preferably, in the case of such a golf practice apparatus, the apparatus is arranged so that the player may proceed with the acts of striking the practice ball repeatedly a predetermined number of times after the insertion and functioning of a coin, check, or token in the operation control means of the apparatuswithout further manipulation thereof by the player, the practice ball being returned to a striking position after each stroke preferably by release means actuated by a foot of the player, whereby returning the practice ball to striking position does not require removal of the hands of the player from the club, and whereby the operation of the release means interferes very slightly with the timing of the stroke and the stance of the player.

These and other objects are attained by the parts, improvements, arrangements, combinations, sub-combinations, and apparatus comprising the present invention, which are particularly described and shown in the accompanying specification and drawings, and which are distinctly pointed out and set forth in the appended claims.

In general terms the present invention may be stated as including a frame, a practice ball body mounted in the frame for constrained mvement in a restricted path and adapted for being struck by a player, releasable shock absorbing and anti-recoil means mounted in the frame for absorbing the shock of the impact of the ball body and for holding the same after it has been moved by impact a predetermined distance, momentum measuring and indicating means operatively associated with said ball body, cam and lever means operatively associated with said shock absorbing and holding or anti-recoil means for releasing said ball body and returning it to normal or striking position, means for locking said release means for maintaining said ball body in partially returned position after a predetermined number of impacts, and coin controlled operation control means for unlocking said locking means for permitting another series of impact movements of said ball body.

Referring to the accompanying drawings forming part hereof:

Figure 1 is a plan view of the improved apparatus, showing the ball body in striking position and the momentum measuring dial at zero;

Fig. 2 is a sectional view, as on line 2-2, Figs. 1 and 3;

Fig. 3 is a plan view similar to Fig. 1, with the cover removed;

Fig. 4 is a transverse sectional view, substantially on line 4-4, Figs. 2 and 3, distant parts being removed;

Fig. 4a is a fragmentary sectional view substantially on line 4a4a, Fig. 4;

Fig. 5 is a transverse sectional view as on line 5-5, Figs. 2 and 3;

Fig. 6 is a perspective view of the improved apparatus with the ball body in striking position, parts being broken away and parts in section, the coin controlled operation control means having been actuated to permit the first of a series of impact movements of the ball body;

Fig. 7 is a similar perspective view showing the ball body held in impact-moved position after the first impact;

Fig. 8 is a similar perspective view showing the ball body held in partially returned position by the release locking means when the release pedal has been depressed after the last of a predetermined number of impact movements;

Fig. 9 is a similar perspective view showing the coin controlled means moved inwardly for unlocking the release locking means, whereby outward movement of the coin controlled means to normal position will permit the release means to return the ball body to normal position for another series of impact movements;

Fig. 10 is a transverse sectional view similar to Fig. 4, showing the ball body held by the shock absorbing means, after having been moved a predetermined distance by impact;

Fig. 11 is a similar view showing the ball body released from the shock absorbing and holding means, and in the initial stage of its return movement; and

Fig. 12 is a similar view showing the ball body at a later stage of its return movement just prior to reaching normal position, and showing the returning means being disconnected therefrom.

Similar numerals refer to similar parts throughout the drawings.

The improved apparatus for golf practice and the like is indicated generally at l0 and includes walls and members forming a frame indicated generally at H, and the frame ll operatively mounts a body H which as illustrated and for the purpose of a golf practice apparatus is a simulation of a standard golf ball and which is sometimes hereinafter termed a practice ball.

The practice ball I2 is constrained for movement only in a restricted path, which in the illustrated embodiment of the invention is a curved path about a horizontal axis, and the practice ball I2 is adapted for having successive momentums imparted thereto by successive impulses of forces acting on the practice ball, which in the normal use of the apparatus for golf practice are successive striking forces or impacts of a golf club used in the normal manner by a player, instructor, or other user of the apparatus.

The practice ball I2 is operatively associated by novel momentum measuring means indicated generally by I3, and hereinafter set forth in greater detail, with indicator means indicated generally by I4, whereby each momentum imparted to the practice ball I2 is accurately measured and visibly indicated by the indicator means I4.

The operation of the apparatus I is preferably controlled by novel and improved coin, check, or token controlled operation control means indicated generally by I5, and which are hereinafter set forth in greater detail.

In the illustrated embodiment of the apparatus, some of the walls of the frame I I preferably form a box-like case having an upwardly opening interior compartment I6 and being provided with a cover I1 which is removably secured upon the upper ends of the case walls, as by means of cap screws I8.

When the apparatus I0 is installed for use the top surface of the cover I! is located in substantially the same horizontal plane as that upon which the player or user stands.

In the frame II are journalled a shaft I9 for the momentum measuring means I3, a practice ball release and resetting shaft 20, and a lock and release shaft 2| for the operation control means I5; the three shafts I9, 20, and 2I extending longitudinally within the compartment I6 and preferably being parallel with each other and being located as illustrated in three successive levels with the shaft I9 uppermost.

An indicator drive shaft 22 for the indicator means I4 is also journalled in the frame II and is located within the compartment as illustrated above the uppermost shaft I9, and the indicator drive shaft 22 extends as illustrated at right angles with the three parallel shafts I9, 20, and 2 I.

The cover I! is provided with an indicator dial reading opening 23 preferably covered with a plate of glass 24, release plunger slide bearing 25, and a practice ball and drive arm slot 26.

A mat 21, of rubber or other resilient material, and having a slot 28 formed therein, is preferabiy located upon a portion of the top face of the cover I! of the apparatus at one end 29 thereof which may be termed the striking end from the fact of the location at the end 29 of the apparatus of the practice ball I2 and its immediately associated parts, and the mat slot 28 registers with the cover slot 25, whereby the mat 28 serves to prevent or minimize damage to the head of a club being used for practice in the event that the club head-misses or slices off the practice ball and strikes against the striking end portion of the cover I'I thus provided with the protective resilient mat 21.

The other end iii! of the apparatus may be termed the indicating end from the fact that the indicator means I4 is located adjacent the end 38 of the apparatus, and the indicating means I4 includes an indicator drum dial 3I which is operatively mounted on the indicator drive shaft 22 and which includes a cylindric dial rim 32 which is located immediately below the dial reading opening 23 of the cover H, and the dial rim 32 is provided on its external cylindrical face with calibrated indicator markings 33 which are read with respect to the point 34 of the head of an indicator reading arrow 35 which is formed, painted, or otherwise provided on the top of the indicator end of the cover Il, as best illustrated in Fig. 1.

The frame 5! at the striking end 29 thereof includes, as illustrated within the compartment It, two cross members 36 and 3? which extend crosswise with respect to the shafts i9, 28, and 2t, and which are preferably parallel with-each other as illustrated, and are spaced from each other longitudinally with respect to the longitudinal axes of the shafts i9, 29, and 2!.

The end portion 38 of the shaft I9 adjacent the striking end 29 of the apparatus, extends preferably through bushing apertures provided in the cross members 35 and 31, and is journal supported in the cross members 35 and 3?, preferably by means of bearing bushings 39 and 4B.

As best shown in Fig. la, the bearing usnings 3S and 46 are provided with alined bores each journalling a length of the end portion 38 of the shaft l 9, and the bushing 39 is provided with one preferably externally cylindrical end which is force fitted in the bushing aperture of the cross member 36, and the bushing 39 has another preferably externally cylindrical end 42 which extends beyond the striking end side Q3 of the cross member 36; and similarly the bushing 4i] has'one preferably cylindrical end 44 which is force fitted in the bushing aperture of the cross member 31, and the bushing 46 has another preferably externally cylindrical end 45 which excross member 31.

The frame I 6 includes as illustrated an end wall 4'! at the indicator end 3!) of the apparatus, and the other end portion 48 of the shaft 69 is journal supported in the frame end wall ll preferably in the bore cf a bushing 49 which is force fitted in a suitable socket formed in the 'end wall 4?.

The longitudinal axes of the bores of the bushings 39, do, and as are all accurately alined with each other, whereby a three bearing support 'is provided for the shaft I9 permitting rotation of the same with substantially no friction.

Between the cross members 3% and 3? a clutch wheel 5!! is secured on the end portion 38 of the shaft 99 as by the illustrated key means 5!.

Between the cross member 3'8 and the end wall M the shaft I9 has secured or formed thereon a worm 52, and the indicator drive shaft 22 has secured thereto a worm wheel 53 which meshes with the worm 52, whereby the indicator shaft 22 is rotated when the shaft I9 is rotated.

A fly wheel 56 may be as illustrated secured on the shaft I 9 between the cross member 3'! and the worm 52, or the clutch wheel may be made of suitable size and form so as to effectively act as a fly wheel, so that a means is provided for storing the'rotary energy imparted to the shaft 5% by operation of the apparatus, whereby the rotation of the shaft I9 continues over a desired period of time during each rotation thereof.

The practice ball !2 is constrained for movement only in a restricted path, and is operatively associated in a novel manner with the momentum measuring means l3, as aforesaid, and for this purpose in the illustrated embodiment of the invention, a drive arm 55 is operatively arranged for clutch or gripping engagement and disengagement with the clutch wheel 50, the wheel 50 and arm 55 constituting parts of novel clutch means indicated generally by 56, and the drive arm 55 extends outwardly from the clutch wheel 50 and shaft I 9 and is alined for movement in and out of the practice ball and drive arm slot 26 of the cover IT, and the practice ball I2 is mounted on the outer end 5'! of the drive arm 55.

The practice ball 12 is preferably made of rubber and preferably includes a T stem 53 (Fig. 4) extending from the bottom thereof and which is anchored in a fitting T-shaped opening formed in the drive arm 55, whereby the T stem of the practice ball l2 may be molded directly in the T-shaped opening formed in the drive arm 55.

As aforesaid, the improved clutch means 55 includes the clutch wheel 56 and the drive arm 55 and furthermore includes novel means operatively mounting the drive arm 55 for gripping engagement and disengagement of the inner end 59 thereof with the clutch wheel 55, and which include a rotatable frame or straddle yoke indicated generally at 60, and which as illustrated is formed by separable side members 6! and 52; and the side member 6| has a bearing aperture formed therein which journal supports the side member (it beyond and clear of the striking end side 43 of the cross member 36 on the externally cylindrical end 42 of the bushing 39; and similarly the side member 62 has a bearing aperture formed therein which journal supports the side member 52 beyond and clear of the indicator end side 46 of the cross member 3'! on the ex ternally cylindrical end 45 of the bushing 40.

The side member 6| as illustrated includes at its outer periphery an arcuate counterweight flange 63 which extends laterally towards the side member 62, and the side member 62 as illustrated includes an arcuate counterweight flange 64 which extends laterally towards the side member 5! and thus towards the flange 53 thereof, and the opposite side faces of the flanges 63 and 64 abut each other as illustrated, and the side members Bi and 62 are secured to each other as by means of bolts 65 and nuts 66, the shank of each bolt extending through suitable registering apertures formed in the flanges 63 and 54 of the side members BI and 62, and the opposite and laterally extending flanges 53 and 64 thus serve to space the remaining portions of the side members GI and 62 from each other and from the cross members 35 and 3?.

In other words, the rotatable frame or straddle yoke 65 thus formed by the side members 6! and 62 straddles the wheel 20 without contacting the same, and is journalled on the bushings 39 and 40 independently of the journalling of the shaft 19 therein.

The drive arm 55 mounting the practice ball 1 2 is independently journalled upon a fulcrum shaft 68 having its ends extending through and secured to side members BI and 62, respectively, as by nuts 69.

The outer surface of the clutch wheel 50 is preferably grooved or serrated, and the lower inner end 59 of drive arm 55 is preferably curved or cam shaped and adapted for gripping engagement with the grooved or serrated outer surface of the clutch wheel 50, as shown in Figs. 2, 4, 6, 11 and 12.

Preferably, the parts are so proportioned that when the ball I2 is in normal or striking position, the fulcrum shaft 68 is directly above the shaft 19, and the driving arm 55 is inclined upwardly and to the right, as viewed in Fig. 4. That is, the axis of shaft 58 is spaced slightly to the left of a straight line drawn between the axis of shaft [9 and the center of ball 12.

With the drive arm 55 in this position, the end wall 15) of the arm slot 26 acts as a stop abutting the back stop surface H of the squared portion H of the arm 55, to prevent clockwise movement thereof. In this position, the arcuate counterweight flanges 63 and 64 exert a toggle action on the drive arm, tending to force the shaft 68 into a straight line between the axis of shaft l9 and the center of ball l2, thus holding the end 59 in gripping and driving engagement with the serrated surface of clutch wheel 50. Accordingly, counter-clockwise movement imparted to the ball l2 will impart counter-clockwise movement to drive arm 55, straddle yoke 65, and Wheel 50, the squared portion ll sliding in arcuate guides I2 0n the cover l1, and all three parts moving substantially as a unit.

Preferably, the parts are so arranged and proportioned that when the ball I2 is in striking position (Fig. 4), the included angle A between a line drawn from the point of engagement of the end 59 of the drive arm to the axis of shaft 68, and a line drawn from said point of engagement to the axis of shaft I9, is not greater than With the parts in this relationship, when an impact is imparted to the ball to rotate it in a counter-clockwise direction, the frictional or gripping engagement between the end 59 and the wheel 55 is sufficient to rotate the wheel in a counterclockwise direction without any slippage, even though the outer surface of the wheel and the cam surface of end 59 are both smooth and hardened.

It is to be noted that by reason of the gripping engagement of the drive arm 55 with the wheel 50 when the ball I2 is struck, the wheel 50 and the shaft l9 have imparted thereto the exact rotary speed about the axis of the shaft l9 as that which has been imparted to the ball l2 by the striking club.

When the ball 12 is given a sudden, forcible impact, as by striking it with a golf club, the momentum of these parts will cause them to rotate as a unit after contact between the club and ball I2 is broken.

Releasable shock absorbing and anti-recoil means for absorbing the shock of impact imparted to the driving arm 55 and for holding the arm after it has been moved a predetermined distance by said impact, preferably includes a bifurcated shock absorbing member 13 pivotally mounted at its lower end on the cross member 35 of the frame, as at 14.

The member 13 is provided at its upper end with arms 15, having notches 16 adapted to receive cylindrical studs 11 projecting from the sides of drive arm 55 between the fulcrum shaft 58 and the back stop surface H. Between the notches l5 and their upper ends the arms 15 are provided with friction surfaces 75' for frictionally engaging the studs T! as the driving arm is driven in a counter-clockwise direction.

A compression spring 13 is preferably interposed between member 13 and the frame for cushioning the shock of impact between the studs T! and the arms 15, and gradually absorbing the momentum of the driving arm.

Thus when the drive arm 55 is driven counterclockwise, the impact between studs 11 and friction surfaces "causes the driving arm to pivot about fulcrum shaft 68 asufiicient amount to move the end 59 of the arm from gripping engagement with the wheel 50. The'counter-clockwis movement of the straddle yoke 60 is stopped by abutment of its end surface 1 9' with the stop 80 projecting'from the rear surface of the drive arm and'located' at a point below thestuds 11 so that the mass of the counterweight flanges of the yoke acts to maintain the end 59 of the'drivearm in disengaged or non-gripping position with respect to the wheel 50, permitting the momentum of the wheel to continue to rotate it.

As the drive arm and yoke are brought to a positive stop, the yielding resistance of spring 'FB'gradualIy builds up the frictional resistance between the studs Ti and surfaces '15 until the studs Tl are received in notches '15, and the notches 70 are adapted to extend around the upper surfaces of studs 11 suflicientlyto prevent recoil of the drive arm. Recoil of the yoke is prevented by a latch member- 8I pivotally mounted at 82 on cross member 43, the end 83 of said latch member being urgedupwardly by a spring 00 to engage a tooth 85 on the yoke 50, as

shown in Fig. .7.

With the arm 55 and yoke 60 thus locked in the positions shown in Figs. '7 and 10, force exerted through the yoke toward the shaft I9 by the compression of spring 18 is taken care of by the independent journalling of the yoke on the shaft 'jour'nalling bushings 39 and 40, so that the shaft I0 rotates freely.

The momentum thus imparted to the shaft as and fly wheel 54 is directly proportionate to the speed, weight and direction of movement of the club head, and is transmitted through the worm 52 on the shaft 19 to the worm wheel 53 fixed on the indicator shaft 22.

The shaft 22 is journalled at its ends in suitable bearings 8'! and 08 mounted in the frame I I, and collars and are secured on the shaft adjacent the bearings 01 and 88 for preventing endwise movement of the shaft.

The indicator drum 3| is operatively mounted on the shaft 22 adjacent to the worm wheel 53,

and is provided with a hub flange 9| the face of which is preferably covered with friction material 92 for frictionally engaging the face of the hub 93 of the worm wheel.

Means for normally holding the drum 3| in driving engagement with the worm wheel 53 preferably includes a compression spring 94 interposed between collar 90' and a collar 95 slidably mounted on the shaft '22 and abutting the hub of drum 3| for urging said drum towards worm wheel 53.

Preferably, a flexible cable or cord 9,6 is fixed at one end to the'drum'3l and passes around the spool-like portion of the" hub between the drum and the hub flange 9|. The other end of the 'cord 96 is attached to' a weight 9]. With the point 34 of the indicator arrow" 35' pointing to zero on the drum 3!,38 shown in Rig. 1; the weight 91 will be at its lowest position.

The mass of weight 91 provides a constant calculatable force resisting rotation of the drum 3! in a clockwise direction (as viewed in'Fig. 2 to indicate movement on the dial rim' 32 from zero to a greater number. As the cord 9.6 winds upon the hub of the drum the work done in raising the weight absorbs or dissipates the momentum transmitted to the various members through shafts I9 and 22.

When the weight has reached the upper limit of its movement, 'theeng'agement between worm wheel '53an'd"worm 52 will maintainit in that position, and the dial rim will show the corre'-' spondingreading until the parts are "released in a 'mahnerto be hereinafter described. Wheri thehub'of the'drum M is disengaged from 'fric tional engagement with the hub of worm wheel 53, the weight 01 will rotate the drum in a countier-clockwise direction until the stop 98' on the abuts the stop arm 99 (Fig; 2) adjustably rnduntd on the frame to cause the dial to read zero.

Great accuracy of calibration may be attained by adjusting the mass of weight 91 in relation to the diameter of the spool-like portion of the hub 'of the drum 3 I.

Thus, the dial rim 32 may be calibrated to accurately measure the momentum imparted to the practice ball l2 by striking it with a golf club so as to indicate the number of yards a golf ball would have been driven by the same blow directed in the same manner. "The cam and lever means operatively associated with the shock absorbing and" holding means, for releasing the ball I2 and resetting it or returning it to normal position, preferably includes the release and resetting shaft 20, which is parallel with shafts I9 and 2|, as previously sairj ri h The shaft 20 is preferably journalled at one end portion in the cross members 36 and 31, and at its other end portion in similar cross members 30'and 31' located adjacent the indicatorend of the frame. Means for causing a partial rotation of shaft 20 in a counter-clockwise direction, as viewed in Fig. 5, preferably includes the release pedal I00 mounted on the top end of the release plunger rod IM and lo: cated above the cover H.

The rod I 0! extends through the release plunger slide bearing 25, and the rod is pivotally connected at its lower end to the outer end of a crank member I02 secured to the shaft 20 adjacent the cross member 30. A stop I03 (Eig. 5) is provided on the bottom wall of the frame for abutting the crank member I02 to limit the downward movement of the release Pedal U A spring 104 is interposed between the pedal I00 and the slide bearing 25, for returning the pedal to its upper position when released. A collar I05, fixed on the plunger rod IOI, abuts the bottom surface of slide bearing 25 for limiting the upward movement of the pedal I00.

Means for releasing driving engagement between drum 3| and worm wheel 53 for returning the drum to zero when the pedal I00 is depressed, preferably includes the drum release lever I05 pivotally mounted at its lower end on the cross members 36 and 31', as at I01, and located therebe ee The lever I06 is provided at its upper end with aforked portion I08 for engaging the collar 95 at opposite sides of the hub of drum 3|. The lever [06 is positioned in such a way that an intermediate portion thereof fits in a cam notch I00 in shaft 20 and the weight of the upper end portion of the lever normally holds the forked portion I08 out of engagement with collar 95. When the pedal is depressed, the shaft 20 rotates to bring the surface of the shaft at the edge of notch I09 against the lever I 06, and the forked portion I08 forces the collar away from drum 3 I against the action of spring 94. This frees the drum and the weight rotates it back to zero in the manner previously described.

At the driving end 29 of the apparatus, the end of shaft 20 extends beyond the face 43 of the cross member 36, and is provided with a cam notch H for normally receiving the end III of latch member 8|.

Between the cross members 36 and 31, the shaft 20 is provided with another cam notch H2, for normally receiving an intermediate portion of the shock absorbing member 13, as best shown in Fig. 4.

Adjacent the face 46 of cross member 31 a yoke returning or resetting crank member H3 is secured on the shaft 20. The crank member H3 is preferably provided with a cam arm I I4 adapted for engaging the cam portion H5 on the side member 62 of the straddle yoke 60, as shown in Fig. 11.

A crank arm H6 is preferably provided on crank member H3, and a yoke resetting or returning link H1 is pivotally connected at one end to the crank arm I I6. The other end of link H1 is provided with a widened portion H8, slidably inserted in a slot H9 in the lower portion of the side member 62, as shown in Figs. 11, 12 and 4a.

The walls of the slot I I9 preferably have a pin I20 secured therein, and the portion H8 is provided with a notch I2I. A spring I22, secured at one end to cross member 31, as at I23, forces the portion H8 of the link upward for engaging the pin I20 in the notch I2I, as shown in Fig. 11.

After an impact movement of the ball I2, with the parts in the positions shown in Figs. 7 and 10, when the release pedal is depressed, rotating the shaft 20, the end III of latch member rides out of the cam notch H0 releasing latch member 8| from engagement with tooth 85 and releasing the straddle yoke 60.

At the same time, the shock absorbing member 13 rides out of cam notch I I2, forcing member 13 to the left, as viewed in Fig. 11, and releasing the studs 11 from the notches 16. The initial rotation of the shaft 20 by depression of the pedal I00 brings the cam arm H4 into abutment with the cam portion H5 of the straddle yoke and imparts initial returning movement thereto.

As the shaft 20 is further rotated, the crank arm H6 moves the link H1 to the right, as viewed in Figs. and 11, until the action of the spring I22 forces the notch I2I into engagement with the pin I20. At this point the pedal I00 is fully depressed, with the crank member I02 (Fig. 5) abutting stop I03, and the parts 13, I2, 60, and I I1 are in the positions shown in Fig. 11, and will remain in those positions until the pedal I00 is released.

When the pedal I00 is released, the reverse rotation imparted to shaft by the action of plunger spring I04 causes the crank arm H6 to move the link II1 to the left, as viewed in Figs. 11 and 12, imparting a return or clockwise movement to the yoke 60 and driving arm 55.

As the yoke and driving arm approach their full returned or original striking positions, a

. releasing pin I25 secured in the slot H9 engages the upper edge of the widened portion II8 of link H1, to disengage pin I20 from notch I2I, as shown in Fig. 12, and release the link II1 from driving engagement with straddle yoke 60. As

- the pedal I00 reaches its upper limit of movement, with the collar I05 abutting the plunger rod bearing 25, the back stop surface II abuts with end wall 10 of arm slot 26, and the mass of the counterweight flanges 63 and 64 exerts a toggle action upon the gripping and driving arm 55 to bring the end 59 into driving engagement with a serrated surface of clutch wheel 50, so that the parts are positioned for the next impact to be imparted to the ball I2.

Means for locking the cam and lever releasing means operated by the release pedal I00, for maintaining the practice ball I2 in partially returned position after a predetermined number of impacts or strokes, preferably includes the pawl link I28 pivotally connected at one end to the crank member I02 and extending therefrom over the lock and release shaft 2I, the other end portion of the link being provided with a cam portion I29 adapted to ride on the cam I30 fixed on the shaft 2I, for a purpose to be hereinafter described.

The end I3I of the pawl link I28 is adapted to successively engage the ratchet teeth I32 of the ratchet wheel I33, which is rotatably mounted on a stud I34 secured to cross member 36' of the frame, so that as the link I28 is moved to the right, as viewed in Fig. 5, by depression of the release pedal I00, the ratchet wheel I 33 will be rotated clockwise a predetermined distance.

Preferably, a disk I35 is fixed to the ratchet wheel I33 for rotation therewith, and the disk is provided with a notch I36 in its periphery. The tooth engaging end I3I of the link I28 is provided with a lateral projection or finger I31 (best shown in Fig. 9) extending laterally from the link and adapted for engaging the notch I30 when the ratchet wheel has been rotated a predetermined distance by a predetermined number of movements of the link I28.

A drag pawl I38 is pivotally mounted at its upper end on the cross member 36', as at I39, and the lower end thereof is urged toward the ratchet wheel I33 by a spring I40. The lower end of the drag pawl I38 is provided with a finger portion I4I adapted for engaging the upper surface of one of the ratchet teeth I32 at the end of each successive clockwise movement of the wheel as actuated by the pawl link I28, in the position shown in Fig. 8, to lock the wheel against counter-clockwise movement as the pawl link I28 is returned for engaging the next successive tooth.

The lower end of drag pawl I38 is also provided with a finger portion I42, for engaging one of the ratchet teeth I32 when the finger I31 has dropped into notch I36, in the position shown in Fig. 8. When the finger is raised out of the notch, the spring I40 urges the finger I42 inward, rotating the ratchet wheel clockwise a slight distance and together with it the disk I35, to the positions shown in Fig. 9, so that the finger I31 cannot again drop into notch I36.

At the end of each upward movement of the pedal I00, the pawl link I28 has been moved to the left, as viewed in Fig. 5, in readiness to engage the next successive ratchet tooth, for rotating the ratchet wheel I33 another step when the pedal is again depressed. A spring I43 is connected at one end to the bottom of the frame and at its other end to an intermediate portion of link I28, for successively holding the end I 3I in engagement with the successive ratchet teeth, and for causing the cam portion I29 to ride over cam I 30.

Preferably, a washer I44 is secured to the shaft 75.

2| adjacent to the cam I39 for laterally guiding the link I23 into engagement with the ratchet teeth and maintaining the link on the cam After the pawl link has moved the ratchet wheel clockwise a predetermined number of times equal to the number of ratchet teeth I32, which in this case is ten, the action of spring I43 pulls the finger Idl into the notch I36, as shown in Fig. 8, and since the drag pawl locks the ratchet wheel against counter-clockwise movement, the release pedal tilt is locked in fully depressed position.

The disk I35 may be provided with a plurality of notches I36 at intervals around its pheriphery, for locking the release pedal after a fewer number of movements, if desired.

As previously set forth, when the release pedal is in its fully depressed position, the driving arm 55 and ball I2 are maintained in the initial returning position of Fig. 8, with the pin I2 3 in engagement with the notch IZI of the resetting link ll'I, so that the ball cannot be returned for striking in any way until the release pedal looking means is unlocked.

Coin controlled operation control means for unlocking the release pedal locking means for permitting another series of impact movements of the practice ball I2, may include a standard coin slot mechanism such as is commonly used in coin controlled machines, and indicated generally at l5.

When the coin slot mechanism is in inoperative position, the coin slide bar tell be forced inwardly only a limited amount, which is not suffici ent to operate the unlocking means inside the box-like frame.

By placing a coin of the proper denomination in slot I5I of slide bar I59, the bar may be given its full inward movement to drop the coin within the frame, in the usual manner, and operate the unlocking means.

The unlocking means preferably includes an operating rod I52 secured at its upper end to the coin slide bar I55 and depending downwardly therefrom. A link I53 is pivotally connected at one end to the lower end of rod I52, and pivotally connected at its other end to a lever arm I55 secured on the lock and release shaft 2i.

Full inward movement of the coin slide bar 3563 will rotate the shaft 2i sufficiently to bring the cam use into engagement with cam portion I29 of link I28, and raise the finger It'i out of the notch I36. At this time the finger I42 advances the disk I35 to the position shown in Fig. 9, so that the notch I36 is out of register with finger I31. In this position of the slide bar We, the shaft 2I has been rotated suificiently to bring the yoke locking arm I55, secured on the end of the shaft 2| at the striking end of the apparatus, into abutment with the tooth I53 projecting from the side member ti of straddle yoke 60, as shown in Fig. 9. Thus with the coin slide bar held in full inward position, the ball I2 cannot be returned to striking position.

Since the link I I'I is at this time in driving engagement with the yoke the release pedal mi; cannot move upward until the ball returns to striking position, so that the coin slot mechanism must be returned to normal inoperative position to permit the release pedal to move upwardly and return the ball to striking position.

Preferably, a spring IE8 is connected at one end to the front wall of the frame and at its other end to the lever arm I54 for returning the coin slide bar I58 to normal position when inward pressure on the slide bar is removed. The returning movement of the slide bar rotates the shaft 2i to release the stop arm I55 from abutment with tooth Iz'iii, whereupon the spring lil l moves the plunger H363 to its upper position rotating shaft if] to return the ball E2 to striking position, in the manner previously described. At the same time the cam I36 on shaft 2! rotates, permitting spring I53 to pull the pawl link end I3I into ratchet tooth actuating position, and the link end I3I moves to the left, as viewed in Fig. 5, over the next successive ratchet tooth I32 in position to actuate the same during the next downward movement of pedal I96.

The parts are now in the positions shown in Fig. 6, ready for another series of impacts to be imparted to the ball I2, and after the last impact of the series, when the release pedal is depressed the finger I3! again drops into notch I36, and locks the release pedal in depressed position.

In the operation of the apparatus, assuming the parts to be in the inoperative positions of Fig. 8, the player inserts a coin in the slot I55 and presses the coin slide bar inwardly as far as possible to drop the coin, and move the parts to the positions of Fig. 9; and then releases the slide bar to permit it to return to normal position,

returning the ball I2 to striking position, and

the release pedal to its upper position, all as shown in Fig. 6, at the same time returning the indicator drum 35 to the zero position shown in Fig. 1.

The ball is then struck with the head of a golf club, the parts assuming the positions of Fig. 7, and the yardage corresponding to the momentum of the impact observed upon the dial.

The release pedal ms is then fully depressed and released to return the ball to striking posi-- tion, and the ball again struck. This operation is repeated until the predetermined number of impact movements or strokes (in this case ten) has been completed, when, after another depression of the pedal, the finger IS'I drops into notch I36 and again locks the parts in their positions of Fig. 8. By then inserting another coin, the cycle of operations may be repeated. After the tenth impact, the release pedal must be depressed hefore inserting a coin to start another series.

Since the indicating drum is calibrated to show horizontal free flight yardage proportionate tothe momentum imparted by the impact given to the ball; if the ball is not correctly hit, this will be shown by the relatively small yardage on the indicator dial.

In other words, if the ball is struck above or below center, or the blow is not struck parallel to the impact movement of the ball, that is, par allel to the line of flight of a free flight ball, the resulting yardage indicated on the dial will be correspondingly diminished. Accordingly, a direct hit on the ball will show a maximum yard age on the dial proportionate to the force of the impact.

Since the practice ball I2 always returns to its exact starting position, the manner in which the club head met the ball may be determined by coating the ball with paint or the like before a stroke. After the coated ball has been struck and returned, the point of contact between the club head and ball may be observed, and also it may be seen whether the clubhas met the ball parallel to the line of flight or was drawn across the face of the ball in striking it.

Thus a player may improve his ability by practicing indoors or in utmost privacy, without having to use the facilities of a practice range, with the attendant requirements of caddies, fees, and the like; and the apparatus is therefore particularly adapted for use by golf instructors.

The present improved apparatus tends to break the inherent habit of raising the eyes to follow the flight of the ball, because there is no such ball to watch, and because the indicator dial is positioned below the eyes adjacent to the position of the ball before being struck.

Moreover, the release pedal may be operated between strokes by the foot of the player, so that returning the practice ball to striking position does not require removal of the hands from the club, and interferes only very slightly with the timing of the stroke and the stance of the player.

And finally, the improved apparatus may be installed for use in recreation resorts, golf clubs, and at other desirable locations without requiring the presence of an attendant, because the apparatus is not capable of operation without inserting a coin, check or token before every series of strokes of a predetermined number.

I claim:

1. Momentum measuring apparatus including a body adapted for having momentums imparted thereto, a member rotatable about an axis, momentum measuring means including a drive shaft rotatable about the same axis, and a gripping lever member, the body being mounted ad- J'acent the outer end of the lever, and means pivotally mounting the lever on the rotatable member for alternate movements between positions of gripping engagements and disengagements of the inner end of the lever with the shaft, whereby momentums of the body and the gripping member are successively directly transmitted to the momentum measuring means.

2. Momentum measuring apparatus including a body adapted for having momentums imparted thereto, a member rotatable about an axis, mmentum measuring means including a drive shaft rotatable about the same axis, and a gripping lever member, the body being mounted adjacent the outer end of the lever, and means pivotally mounting the lever on the rotatable member for alternate movements between positions of gripping engagements and disengagements of the inner end of the lever with the shaft, whereby momentums of the body and the gripping member are successively directly transmitted to the momentum measuring means, and indicating means operatively associated with the momentum measuring means for successively indi cating the magnitude of the momentums directly transmitted to the momentum measuring means from the body.

3. Momentum measuring apparatus including a body adapted for having momentums imparted thereto, a member rotatable about an axis, momentum measuring means including a drive shaft independently journalled for rotation independently of the rotatable member about the same axis, and a gripping lever member, the body being mounted adjacent the outer end of the lever, and means pivotally mounting the lever on the rotatable member for alternate movements between positions of gripping engagements and disengagements of the inner end of the lever with the shaft, whereby momentums of the body and the gripping member are successively directly transmitted to the momentum measuring means.

4. Momentum measuring apparatus including a body adapted for having momentums imparted thereto, a member rotatable about an axis, momentum measuring means including a drive shaft rotatable about the same axis, and a gripping lever member. the body being mounted adjacent the outer end of the lever, and means pivotally mounting the lever on the rotatable member for alternate movements between positions of gripping engagements and disengagements of the inner end of the lever with the shaft, whereby momentums of the body and the gripping member are successively directly transmitted to the momentum measuring means, and means limiting the movement of the rotatable member and absorbing the momentum thereof and of the body mounted thereon.

5. Momentum measuring apparatus including a body adapted for having momentums imparted thereto, a member rotatable about an axis, momentum measuring means including a drive shaft independently journalled for rotation independently of the rotatable member about the same axis, and a gripping lever member, the body being mounted adjacent the outer end of the lever, and means pivotally mounting the lever on the rotatable member for alternate movements between positions of gripping engagements and disengagements of the inner end of the lever with the shaft, whereby momentums of the body and the gripping member are successively directly trans mitted to the momentum measuring means, and means limiting the movement of the rotatable member and frictionally absorbing the momentum thereof and of the body mounted thereon at an increasing rate of frictional resistance.

6. In momentum measuring apparatus and the like, a shaft journalled for rotation about its longitudinal axis, a frame rotatably mounted for rotation about the same axis, a lever arm, means pivotally mounting the lever arm intermediate its ends on the frame, the outer end of the arm being adapted for having momentums imparted thereto, a wheel secured to the shaft, the periphery of the wheel being located between the axis and the pivotal mounting means of the arm, and the inner end of the arm being adapted for successive gripping engagements and disengagements with the periphery of the wheel, whereby momentums of the arm are successively transmitted to the shaft.

'7. Momentum measuring apparatus including a shaft journalled for rotation about its longitudinal axis, a frame rotatably mounted for rotation about the same axis, a lever arm, means pivotally mounting the lever arm intermediate its ends on the frame, the outer end of the arm being adapted for having momentums imparted thereto, a wheel secured to the shaft, the periphery of the wheel being located between the axis and the pivotal mounting means of the arm, and the inner end of the arm being adapted for successive gripping engagements and disengagements with the periphery of the wheel, whereby momentums of the arm are successively transmitted to the shaft, and means applying a definite resistance against rotation of the shaft, and releasable antirecoil means limiting movement in one direction of the arm and releasably locking the arm at a predetermined position.

8. Momentum measuring apparatus including a shaft j ournalled for rotation about its longitudinal axis, a frame rotatably mounted for rotation about the same axis. a lever arm. means pivotally mounting the lever arm intermediate its ends on the frame, the outer end of the arm being adapted for having momentums imparted thereto, a wheel secured to the shaft, the periphery of the wheel being located between the axis and the pivotal mounting means of the arm, and the inner end of the arm being adapted for successive gripping engagements and disengagements with the periphery of the wheel, whereby momentums of the arm are successively transmitted to the shaft, and means operatively associated with the shaft for measuring and indicating the momentums transmitted thereto, and means limiting movement in one direction of the arm and releasably locking the arm at a predetermined position, and means releasably locking the frame after rotation thereof in one direction to a predetermined position.

9. Momentum measuring apparatus including a shaft journalled for rotation about its longitudinal axis, a frame rotatably mounted for rotation about the same axis, a lever arm, means pivotally mounting the lever arm intermediate its ends on the frame, the outer end of the arm being adapted for having momentums imparted thereto, a wheel secured to the shaft, the periphery of the wheel being located between the axis and the pivotal mounting means of the arm, and the inner end of the arm being adapted for successive gripping engagements and disengagements with the periphery of the wheel, whereby momentums of the arm are successively transmitted to the shaft, and means operatively associated with the shaft for measuring and indicating the momentums transmitted thereto, and releasable anti-recoil means releasably locking the frame after rotation thereof in one direction to a predetermined position, and means for releasing the anti-recoil means and reversely rotating the frame to another predetermined position.

10. Momentum measuring apparatus including a shaft journalled for rotation about its longitudinal axis, a frame rotatably mounted for rotation about the same axis, a lever arm, means pivotally mounting the lever arm intermediate its ends on the frame, the outer end of the arm being adapted for having momentums imparted thereto, a wheel secured to the shaft, the periphery of the wheel being located between the axis and the pivotal mounting means of the arm, and the inner end of the arm being adapted for successive gripping engagements and disengagements with the periphery of the wheel, whereby momentums of the arm are successively transmitted to the shaft, and means operatively associated with the shaft for measuring and indicating the momentums transmitted thereto, and releasable anti-recoil means releasably looking the frame after rotation thereof in one direction from an initial position to a second position, and the measuring and indicating means including a drum having an initial position corresponding to the initial position of the frame, releasable means connecting the drum with the shaft, and means operative to return the drum to its initial position after release thereof from operative connection with the shaft, and means for releasing the anti-recoil means and reversely rotating the frame to the initial position and releasing the drum from operative connection with the shaft.

11. Momentum measuring apparatus including a shaft journalled for rotation about its longitudinal axis, a frame rotatably mounted for rotation about the same axis, a lever arm, means pivotally mounting the lever arm intermediate its ends on the frame, the outer end of the arm being adapted for having momentums imparted thereto, a wheel secured to the shaft, the periphery of the wheel being located between the axis and the pivotal mounting means of the arm, and the inner end of the arm being adapted for successive gripping engagements and disengagements with the periphery of the wheel, whereby momentums of the arm are successively transmitted to the shaft, and means operatively associated with the shaft for measuring and indicating the momentums transmitted thereto, and releasable anti-recoil means releasably locking the frame after rotation thereof in one direction to a predetermined position, and. means for releasing the anti-recoil means and reversely rotating the frame to another predetermined position, and releasable control means for the release means rendering the release means inoperative after a plurality of operations thereof.

12. Momentum measuring apparatus including a, shaft journalled for rotation about its longitudinal axis, a frame rotatably mounted for rotation about the same axis, a lever arm, means pivotally mounting the lever arm intermediate its ends on the frame, the outer end of the arm being adapted for having momentums imparted thereto, a wheel secured to the shaft, the periphery of the wheel being located between the axis and the pivotal mounting means of the arm, and the inner end of the arm being adapted for successive gripping engagements and disengagements with the periphery of the wheel, whereby momentums of the arm are successively transmitted to the shaft, and means operatively associated with the shaft for measuring and indicating the momentums transmitted thereto, and releasable anti-recoil means releasably locking the frame after rotation thereof in one direction to a predetermined position, and means for releasing the anti-recoil means and reversely rotating the frame to another predetermined position, and releasable control means for the release means rendering the release means inoperative after a plurality of operations thereof, and means for operating the releasable control means to render the release means operative.

NORMAN M. BARKER. 

